VLADIMIR STOJKOVIC was set to start a three-day trial at Finch Farm today with the hope of winning himself a place in Everton's squad for next season.

The Serbian international obtained the necessary paperwork required to allow his entry into the UK on Monday and will now be put through his paces at the Blues’ training base by goalkeeping coach Chris Woods.

Boss David Moyes has been searching for an experienced campaigner to provide back-up for Tim Howard and Stojkovic – capped 15 times by his country and who numbers Red Star Belgrade among his former employers – has ticks in the right boxes.

He is currently with Sporting Lisbon, but his representatives claim to have already held discussions with Moyes about moving to Goodison Park. If Stojkovic impresses, it is likely he will sign a one-year loan deal with a view to a permanent transfer.

Howard is still away on his holidays, as his season did not finish until the end of June when the United States played their final World Cup qualifier.

He is not expected to join up with his team mates until just before the Blues head to Chicago for their pre-season tour.

Iain Turner was between the posts during Saturday’s 1-0 defeat in FC Sion, but John Ruddy may be given his chance to stake his own claims this weekend when Everton travel to his former club, Cambridge.

Blues youngster Dan Gosling, meanwhile, was in the England Under-19 side which lost to hosts Czech Republic in the opening match of the European Under-19 Championship.

The youngsters now face Italy tomorrow in a game they can’t afford to lose.